Operative clause

From NSwiki, the NationStates encyclopedia.
Jump to: navigation, search

An operative clause is an individual section of a United Nations proposal or resolution which describes or defines a particular action. Together, all the operative clauses define the policy recommendation of the resolution. Typically the operative clauses are located in the second half of a resolution. Some resolution authors like to number operative clauses, others do not.

Since many UN resolutions are constructed as a single, very long sentence, operative clauses are typically started by an operative phrase. An operative phrase is an active-tense verb, which is sometimes modified by adverbs.

In NationStates there is no official format for UN resolutions, so operative clauses may not start with a verb nor will they always be grouped together. However, unlike preambulatory clauses, operative clauses are always the parts of a resolution that prescribe action on the behalf of the United Nations. The game moderators judge the legality of proposals based on both their preambulatory and operative clauses, but tend to focus more on operative clauses since some opinions may be expressed in preambulatory clauses.

Most UN debate focuses on the operative clauses. The majority of the operative clauses in a resolution should work together and prescribe a similar impact for the resolution.

List of common operative phrases

  • Accepts
  • Affirms
  • Approves
  • Authorizes
  • Calls
  • Calls Upon
  • Condemns
  • Congratulates
  • Confirms
  • Considers
  • Declares
  • Deplores
  • Draws attention to
  • Designates
  • Directs
  • Emphasizes
  • Encourages
  • Endorses
  • Expresses its appreciation
  • Expresses its hope
  • Further invites
  • Further proclaims
  • Further reminds
  • Further recommends
  • Further resolves
  • Further requests
  • Notes
  • Proclaims
  • Reaffirms
  • Recommends
  • Reminds
  • Regrets
  • Requests
  • Solemnly affirms
  • Strongly condemns
  • Supports
  • Trusts
  • Takes note of
  • Transmits
  • Urges